Reverse grids for Formula 1 sprint races set to be discussed, six 2024 venues for format announced

Formula 1 bosses are thought to be considering whether or not to reverse part of the grid for sprint races to create more drama in 2024.

Sprint weekends were introduced in 2021 but have split opinion, with some feeling they act as a preview for the main Grand Prix and therefore take away some of the intrigue.

Among the critics is three-time world champion Max Verstappen, who called for them to be scrapped during the 2023 season.

They are set to return in 2024 but proposals to change the format to spruce up the action are being considered.

One suggestion is to change to parc ferme rules that forbid teams from making changes to their cars after the first practice session, while the other is in regard to reversing part of the grid, such as the top 10.

Discussions are ongoing over how reversing the grid could be done effectively.

The six venues that will stage sprint weekends in 2024 have been announced.

China, Miami, Austria, Austin, Sao Paolo and Qatar have been chosen to host the short-form Saturday races and changes to the order of events have been agreed in principle.

If implemented, qualifying for the sprint would be held on Friday ahead of the 100km race on Saturday.

Qualifying for the GP will then take place after the sprint with the main race in its usual Sunday slot.

A final proposal is to be discussed at a meeting of the F1 Commission – which is made up of the 10 teams, the FIA and F1 – in January.

The first sprint race in 2024 will be held during the weekend of the Chinese GP, which is set to return to the calendar for the first time since 2019.

Miami will then host its first sprint across the weekend of May 3-5, before the third sprint of the season takes place at the Red Bull Ring in Austria.

The remaining three sprint weekends will be held after the summer break at the United States GP, the Sao Paolo GP, and the Qatar GP.

"I am delighted to announce six exciting venues for next season's F1 Sprint events, including two new hosts China and Miami, both of which will be fantastic additions and provide great racing for all our fans at the race and watching at home," said F1 president Stefano Domenicali.

"Since its creation in 2021, the Sprint has been consistent in delivering increased audiences on TV, more on track entertainment for the fans at events and increased fan engagement on social and digital platforms, and we are looking forward to the exciting events next year."

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